PES 2010 kicks off in autumn

Though Konami's Pro Evolution Soccer 2009 managed to boot FIFA 09 from the top spot of the UK charts when it was released in November, critics held it in less esteem than its Electronic Arts-developed competitor.

With Pro Evolution Soccer 2010, the publisher is seeking to best its rival on both fronts. The game will ship this autumn worldwide on the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 2, PC, and PSP.

Konami has focused its efforts on improving the core gameplay in the new Pro Evo, promising a return to the series' simulation roots. According to the publisher, key improvements to the AI mean that midfielders and defenders will work together, eliminating weak spots and the chance for soft goals.

Konami is also promising a number of other tweaks under the hood. The publisher touted a new power-gauge system, which will assess players' formations against their opposition's before and during a match, as well as a new penalty system that seeks to improve control and accuracy.

The overall look of the game is also being tweaked, with creator Shingo "Seabass" Takatsuka aiming for better player likenesses, animation, and lighting systems. Konami also plans to improve Pro Evo's online component, and intends to release a number of items as downloadable content after the game's launch.

Last but not least, Konami has also secured an exclusive Europa League licence (formally known as the UEFA cup), having locked down the Champion's League rights last year. Argentinean Lionel Messi, who plays for Barcelona, will be adorning the game's box in Europe.